Combined chair and backpack apparatus with flip-up concealment cover

ABSTRACT

A portable and concealable chair and backpack apparatus includes a frame, a frame cover, a backpack attached to the frame cover, a seat, and a concealment cover. The apparatus also includes shoulder straps attached to the frame cover for use in transporting the apparatus. The concealment cover includes a cover frame and a cover supported by the cover frame so as to substantially surround and cover a user seated on the seat. The cover frame includes a plurality of support ribs which support the cover even in strong wind conditions. The number and shape of ribs used will vary the shape and volume of the enclosed area. The cover is formed of 3-D camouflage and includes at least one opening for unobstructed viewing and shooting therethrough.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of co-pendingapplication Ser. No. 11/180,837.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a combined chair and backpack having auser concealment apparatus, suitable for outdoor use by hunters ornaturalists. More particularly, the present invention relates to acamouflage-enclosed combined chair and backpack apparatus which includesstraps for facilitating transportation, pockets for easy storage ofhunting gear, a cushioned seat and a foldable frame, such that theapparatus is capable of being used either in a self-supportingfreestanding configuration, or in a folded configuration for usesupported by a vertical support, such as a tree.

2. Description of the Background Art

Hunters and naturalists often need to carry a variety of gear into thefield. When hunting particular types of game, such as wild turkeys, useof dual-use devices that combine seating and carrying functions is wellknown. Specifically, a variety of designs are available for portableoutdoor seats combined with vests or backpacks.

One known design includes a folding chair with backpack-like shoulderstraps or a vest, allowing the chair to be worn by the user forfacilitating transport of the chair.

However, it is applicant's current understanding that the known designsfor these types of portable outdoor chairs have been adapted either tobe used on open ground in a self-supporting manner, or to be used inconjunction with a tree or other vertical support, but not both.Therefore, a user must purchase a portable outdoor chair either of thefreestanding type, that will support itself, or a chair intended for usewith a tree or similar vertical support.

Examples of patents relating to known foldable chairs for use by huntersinclude U.S. Pat. No. 5,620,227, “Vest Garment with Pivotable SeatMember,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,110, “Universal Back Pack and Lounge SeatCombination,” and U.S. Pat. No. 6,772,925, “Universal Hunting Pack andTurkey Hunting Vest.” Some of these references disclose folding chairswhich are combined with backpacks.

These folding chairs are generally effective in providing a seat thatcan be transported, but fail to provide a user with the flexibility ofsetting up the apparatus either against a tree or freestanding, withoutan auxiliary support. Depending on the environment encountered by a userin the field, one choice is usually easier and more practical, for agiven application, than the other.

In addition, it is normally desirable for an outdoorsman to be concealedwith a camouflage material in order to reduce the chance of scaring awaywildlife and game. Camouflage blinds come in a great variety of designs,and the following patents are illustrative of the prior art: U.S. Pat.No. 4,683,672 “Collapsible Game Blind,” U.S. Pat. No. 4,788,997“Portable Blind,” and U.S. Pat. No. 4,782,616 “Portable Blind Apparatusfor Outdoor Usage.” These patents disclose the combination of chairs andblinds, and the '616 patent discloses an apparatus for stowing a chairand blind in a backpack.

The prior inventions all suffer from one or more significant drawbacks.Either the chair and blind frame are not easily stowed as a backpack, orthe blind cannot rapidly be deployed. Rapid opening blinds are also notnew to the art. Some manufactures produce a ground blinds with a springsteel frame. However, no known prior art combines a stowable hunterschair with a rapidly deployable concealment cover.

Moreover, known chair-and-cover frames are generally of considerableheight, which detracts from their ability to conceal the user,especially when used in an open field or marsh area.

Because a hunter or naturalist may spend a considerable amount of timeseated on the device while enjoying the natural environment or waitingfor wildlife to appear, comfortable seating is needed in the form of aneasily transportable folding chair or seat cushion incorporated intobackpacks and vests.

An improved portable and concealable outdoor chair and backpackapparatus is therefore needed, which would be more versatile andadaptable than the previously known chair and backpack devices. Inparticular, an apparatus is needed that would be quickly concealable andusable either in a self-supporting mode, or alternatively, could beleaned against a preexisting vertical support such as a tree, whileremaining able to transport various objects in pockets formed therein.Moreover, an apparatus is needed that is low in profile, and yet stillpermits a comfortable and functional sitting posture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a portable and low profile outdoor chairapparatus that is combined with a backpack and a rapidly deployableconcealment cover. The backpack and chair apparatus hereof includes afoldable frame that allows the apparatus be arranged in a freestandingself-supporting configuration, or alternatively, allows the apparatus tobe leaned against and sustained by a vertical support. The apparatusincludes a seat back frame cover, including a flexible support panelmade from a hammock-like support mesh, so that when used in conjunctionwith a vertical support, the chair can be arranged to support a user ina comfortably supported lounging posture. The apparatus further includesan easily deployed camouflage cover configured to allow rapidconcealment of the occupant.

A combined chair and backpack apparatus according to a particularembodiment of the invention may incorporate pockets of varying sizes andshapes in order to carry appropriate gear for hunting or other outdoorwork, such as nature photography.

Optionally, if desired, a combined chair and backpack apparatusaccording to the present invention may incorporate a roll-away orange orotherwise brightly colored panel, that can be unfurled forhigh-visibility safety use, or else can be stowed away when not needed.

The combined chair and backpack apparatus according to a particularembodiment of the invention includes a frame, including a rigid mainframe section, a reinforcing brace which is pivotally attached to themain frame section, and a concealment cover frame which is pivotallyattached to the main frame section. The reinforcing brace is capable offorming an angled support relative to the main frame section, for use asa self-supporting apparatus. The brace is also capable of being foldedinto a flat arrangement against the main frame section, in order toallow the user to rest the frame against a tree or other verticalsupport.

The apparatus hereof also includes a seat, including a relatively thickseat cushion for supporting a user in a seated position thereon. Theseat cushion may include a base layer of dense foam for comfort, and alighter top foam layer. The seat is operatively attached to one end ofthe main frame section, which may be accomplished via an intermediatepanel of fabric material. The seat may be provided with a strap at anouter end thereof, for connecting the seat to the backpack portion ofthe apparatus while in a stowed position for being carried on a user'sback, such that the cushion does not hit the user's legs while walking.

The combined chair and backpack apparatus according to a particularembodiment of the invention includes a rapidly deployable concealmentcover. The cover includes a fabric covering supported by a cover frame.The cover frame can be provided as a fan-out or clamshell style frame, ahub and strut frame, or spring steel/twist fold frame such that thecover frame structure substantially surrounds the user seated with thechair. In all embodiments, the cover is relatively low in profile sinceit is provided in a height to just cover a user seated at ground level.

Furthermore, the apparatus includes shoulder straps in order to allow auser to conveniently carry the apparatus on his or her back. Theapparatus may also include a waist strap, to stabilize the apparatuswhen worn by a user, and a chest strap to more securely attach theapparatus to a wearer's torso.

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, the readeris referred to the following detailed description section, which shouldbe read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Throughout thefollowing detailed description and in the drawings, like numbers referto like parts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a side plan view of a combined backpack and concealableseating apparatus according to a selected illustrative embodiment of thepresent invention, with the apparatus set up in a first functionalorientation illustrating a self-supporting deployed and unfolded frameposition, and with the concealment cover removed;

FIG. 1B is a side plan view of the combined backpack and concealableseating apparatus of FIG. 1, with the apparatus set up in a secondfunctional orientation, illustrating a folded flat position for use witha vertical support;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a frame which is a component part ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A-1B, with the frame shown in the firstfunctional orientation illustrating the self-supporting deployed frameposition;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the frame of FIG. 2A, with the frameshown in the second functional orientation, illustrating the folded flatposition for use with a vertical support;

FIG. 2C is a front plan view of the frame of FIGS. 2A-2B, illustratingthe main frame section and the reinforcing support brace;

FIG. 2D is a detail view of a leg portion of a main frame section of theframe, showing an attachment between a strap and the frame;

FIG. 3 is an environmental perspective view, partially cut away, of thecombined backpack and concealable seating apparatus of FIGS. 1A-1B, withthe apparatus set up in the folded position leaning against a tree, andwith the concealment cover removed, and also illustrating a straparrangement according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a body of a user wearing the apparatus of FIGS.1A-1B arranged in a transport configuration thereof, showing the seatcushion connected to the backpack with a strap;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the backpack side of the apparatus, withthe concealment cover removed, and with a backpack cover shown foldedaway and the main compartment laying open, illustrating thehook-and-loop connector piece;

FIG. 6 is a side plan view of a combined backpack and concealableseating apparatus according to a selected illustrative embodiment of thepresent invention, with the apparatus set up in a first functionalorientation illustrating a self-supporting deployed and unfolded frameposition, and with the concealment cover deployed;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 6 illustrating the coversupported by a plurality of support ribs;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 6 shown withoutthe cover, illustrating the cover frame attached to a lower portion ofthe seat frame;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of first embodiment cover in which thecover frame is pivotally connected to each side of the seat frame usinga pin;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a second embodiment cover in which thecover frame is pivotally connected to each side of the seat frame aplurality of pockets sewn in the cover;

FIG. 9C is a perspective view of a third embodiment cover in which thecover frame is connected to each side of the seat frame using a hub, inwhich the ribs are received in sockets formed in the hub housing;

FIG. 10 is a front view of seat frame and the cover frame of theapparatus of FIG. 6, showing a collapsed configuration in which the mainframe, the support brace, and each supporting rib are permitted to liein a generally single plane.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the seat frame and a collapsed cover frame ofthe apparatus of FIG. 6 showing a fourth embodiment cover frame formedof loops of spring steel.

FIG. 12 is similar to FIG. 11 showing the loops of spring steel foldedand stored in a draw-string pouch.

FIG. 13 is a side view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 6 in which thecover is formed of a 3-D camouflage cloth.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A combined backpack and outdoor seating apparatus 10 incorporating arapidly deployable concealment cover 100, according to a selectedillustrative embodiment of the invention, will now be described in somedetail, with reference to the drawings.

Referring to FIG. 1A, a combined backpack and concealable outdoorseating apparatus 10 is shown in a first functional orientation thereof,illustrating a self-supporting deployed (unfolded) frame position of theapparatus. The concealment cover 100 is not shown to allow anunobstructed view of this portion of the seating apparatus 10.

The apparatus 10 includes a seat frame 12, a frame cover 20, a seat 30and a backpack 50, which will each be further described herein. When theseat frame 12 of the apparatus 10 is in the deployed, unfolded position,the seat frame 12 is capable of supporting the apparatus on open groundin the freestanding configuration shown in FIG. 1A, and without anyauxiliary support external to the apparatus.

The seat frame 12 is an essential component of the apparatus 10. As seenbest in FIGS. 2A-2C, the seat frame 12 includes a main frame section 16,and a support brace 14 which is pivotally attached to the main framesection. The main frame section 16 and the support brace 14 are eachformed from a strong metal or high-strength plastic, so that the seatframe 12 can support the weight of a user leaning thereon, for anextended time period, without failing or becoming deformed. The seatframe 12 may be formed from hollow tubular components, in order tominimize weight.

The main frame section 16 includes an inverted, generally U-shapedmember 4, and a crossbar 6 welded across the U-shaped member at anintermediate location of the U-shaped member, so that a pair of parallelspaced apart leg portions 5, 5 are defined extending downwardly belowthe crossbar. Alternatively, a rectangular 0-shaped structure could beused for the main frame section, as an equivalent structure to thatshown.

The support brace 14 is generally provided as a second U-shaped member,and is attached to a medial portion of the main frame section 16, abovethe crossbar 6, via fasteners such as rivets 8. The support brace 14 ispivotally attached to the main frame section 16, so as to allow pivotalmovement thereof in relation to the main frame section. Optionally,plastic bushings 15 may be provided at the juncture between the supportbrace 14 and the main frame section 16.

While deployed in the self-supporting, unfolded position shown in FIG.2A, the support brace 14 of the seat frame 12 extends at an anglerelative to the main frame section 16. The angle is limited via a strap17, which extends from one leg 5 of the main frame section 16, wrapsaround the support brace 14, and then attaches to the other leg 5 of themain frame section. The effective length of the strap 17 may either beadjustable or non-adjustable, as desired.

The strap 17 is fixedly attached to each of the legs 5, 5 of the mainframe section as shown in FIG. 2D, preferably by fasteners 19 such asrivets or nuts and screws. The fasteners 19 should extend outwardly atthe sides of the legs 5, to provide a stop member to limit foldingmovement of the support brace 14 relative to the main frame 16. The endsof the strap 17 may be made with dual concentric loops 21, 23, so thatan inner loop 21 is affixed to the frame by the fastener 19, while theouter loop 23 protectively covers the fastener.

The apparatus 10 also includes a frame cover 20 which surrounds the mainframe section 16, and is formed out of a soft, sturdy fabric material,such as a nylon or other cloth mesh, as shown in FIG. 3. There arecutout openings, such as that shown at 22, formed in the outer edges ofthe frame cover 20 in order to allow access to the main frame section 16for the attachment of straps and the like. The frame cover 20 includes afront panel 25 (FIG. 3) and a back panel 27(FIG. 5) sewn together at theedges to form a flat, hollow sleeve which receives the main framesection 16 therebetween. The back panel 27 may be formed with aseparable seam 29 extending thereacross, and having a two-parthook-and-loop fastener 86 thereon. A backpack receptacle 50 is sewn onto the back panel 27 of the frame cover, which forms the inner wall ofthe receptacle.

The frame cover 20 wraps around the main frame section 16, and is closedat the separable seam via the two-part hook and loop fastener 86. Thehook and loop fastener 86 allows a user to easily remove the backpack 50and cover 20 from the seat frame 12 for cleaning purposes.

The apparatus 10 also includes a seat 30, which is sewn on to orotherwise attached to the frame cover 20 at the bottom edge 24 of theframe cover 20. The seat 30 can be attached to the frame cover 20 bystitching a connector panel 32, formed from a flexible piece ofmaterial, extending between the seat 30 and the frame cover 20, as shownin FIG. 4. Alternatively, for increased durability, the seat 30 can beattached to the frame cover 20 by stitching the connector panel 32 on toa lower reinforcing member 78, shown in FIG. 3, that is attached to theframe cover 20.

The seat 30 includes a relatively thick, dense foam cushion 36 of a sizelarge enough to comfortably support a hunter in the sitting position,and a fabric envelope 31 surrounding and enclosing the cushion, wherethe bottom panel (not shown) of the envelope is formed from durableplastic, vinyl, an elastomer, or a similar water-impermeable material.Optionally, in order to maximize comfort, the seat cushion 36 mayinclude a base layer 35 of a relatively dense and resilient foamelastomer, and a top layer 37 of a lighter, more easily compressiblefoam elastomer.

In the depicted embodiment, the seat 30 also includes an adjustablestrap 34, located at the outer bottom edge of the cushion 36 when inview in the unfolded position of the apparatus. This adjustable strap 34can be used to attach the seat cushion 22 to the backpack 50 to keep theseat 30 out of the way during transport, as shown in FIG. 4, and to keepthe seat from hitting the hunter's legs while in the stored out-of-useposition.

FIG. 1B illustrates the apparatus 10 with the frame in a folded flatposition thereof, as the apparatus would be used propped against anaturally-occurring vertical support, such as a tree 2.

The apparatus 10 also includes a backpack 50, which attaches to theframe cover 20 via stitching running across along the bottom edge 24 ofthe frame cover and continuing up along the two sides of the framecover, forming the main compartment 52 of the backpack receptacle 50.The upper flap of the backpack 50 is also removably attachable to theframe cover 20 near the top edge thereof, via two-part adjustable straps64 that can be detached to uncover the main compartment 52 of thebackpack 50 for easier access thereto, as shown in FIG. 5.

The backpack 50 may be made from a camouflage material for huntingpurposes, but can be made out of many materials such as waterproofand/or scent-suppressing materials.

The backpack 50 also has pockets on the outside surface of the maincompartment 52. FIG. 1 shows a small pocket 54 and a large pocket 56,but numerous variations are possible.

The backpack 50 also has an interior mesh pocket 62, shown in FIG. 4 andFIG. 5, behind the small pocket 54, for storing an orange or otherwisebrightly-colored visibility panel 60, that is attached to the backpack50. The orange visibility panel 60 can be removed from the pocket andunrolled for safety purposes when needed, or stowed away in the meshpocket 62 when not needed. The orange visibility panel 60 is attached tothe inside of the mesh pocket 62, and has connector straps on the freeend thereof. These connector straps may be formed from a firsthook-and-loop material such as that sold under the mark VELCRO. Thereare also corresponding fastener pieces attached to the underside of thebackpack 50, in order to secure the panel 60 to in a position covering alarge portion of the backpack 50.

A looped handle strap 68 may be provided at the top of the main framesection 16 near the adjustable straps 64, to permit easy handling of theapparatus 10 when the apparatus 10 is not being transported on a user'sback. This looped strap 68, where used, attaches to the main framesection 16 at an opening 22 in the frame cover 20.

FIG. 3 shows the apparatus 10 in the folded position supported by avertical support 2 illustrating the arrangement of straps. On the frontside of the frame cover 20, directly below the looped handle strap 68,there is an upper reinforcing member 72 sewn in place. Shoulder straps70 attach to this reinforcing member 72 via stitching. The shoulderstraps 70 are equipped with loops 74 for convenient storage of huntingaccessories, such as small knives, rounds and similarly-shaped objects.Further down along the shoulder straps 70, a chest strap 76 is attachedto both straps, allowing a user to connect the chest strap 76 and adjustit to tighten the apparatus 10 when worn by the user, for easiertransportation.

The lower ends of the shoulder straps 70 are attached to a lowerreinforcing member 78 at the bottom edge 24 of the frame cover, 20 viastitching. Also attached to this lower reinforcing member 78 is a set ofwaist straps 80 that may be connected around the waist of the user forcarrying heavy loads, thereby placing more of the weight of the load onthe user's hips as opposed to the user's shoulders.

FIG. 4 shows the apparatus in the out-of-use transport position, beingcarried on the back of a user, with the seat cushion 20 stowed away viathe adjustable strap 34 attached to the underside of the large pocket56. Also attached to the large pocket 56 at a slightly higher height isa set of side straps 82. The side straps run from the large pocket 56 tothe frame cover 20 and when connected can be tightened to decrease thesize of the main compartment 52 in the event that only small objects areto be transported.

The large pocket 56 also has a zipper 84, shown in FIG. 4 for easyaccess. However, a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro is anotherpossible fastening device and is used on the small pocket 54 as well onthe frame cover 20.

FIG. 5 shows the seat frame 12 and frame cover 20 with the backpack 50detached at the adjustable straps 64 and with the side straps 82detached. This allows a user a larger opening to load the maincompartment 52 of the backpack 50.

The apparatus 10 also includes a concealment cover 100 for concealmentof the user. Several embodiments of the cover 100 are contemplated, andthe invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein.

The cover 100 as shown in each embodiment includes a cover frame 120 anda cover 110 supported by the cover frame 120 so as to substantiallysurround a user seated on the seat 30 and cover the user from above. Thecover frame 120 includes a plurality of support ribs 122. The ribs 122are formed from a strong metal or high-strength plastic, so that theribs 122 can support the cover 110 even in strong wind conditions. Theribs may be formed as a solid rod, or alternatively may be formed ofhollow tubular components, in order to minimize weight.

Each rib 122 is single elongate element that is formed into an arcuateshape. Each rib has a first end 124, a second end 126, and a wellportion 128 disposed between the first and second ends 124, 126. Thenumber of ribs 122 used will vary the shape and volume of the enclosedarea. The more ribs 122 used, the greater the volume and the morehemispheric the shape. For a greater volume of concealment, C-shapedribs may be used. Other shapes, such has half-ovals or triangles, may beused to accommodate the requirements of a specific application. Forexample, to provide a greater volume near the ground and a smallervolume near the occupant's head, a generally triangular rib can beselected.

In a first embodiment, the cover 100 a includes a cover frame 120 a madefrom a plurality of inverted U-shaped ribs (FIGS. 7 and 8). In FIG. 8,five ribs are shown, but it is understood that a greater or fewer numberof ribs may be provided. The ribs 120 are arranged about the seat 30such that a first end 124 of each rib 122 is disposed on one side of theseat 30, and the second end 126 of the rib 122 is disposed on theopposed side of the seat 30. Each rib 122 has a distance between itsfirst 124 and second 126 ends that is slightly different than thecorresponding distance in the adjacent rib 122. In this arrangement,each rib 122 fits in the space between the open ends of the adjacent rib122 in a nested fashion.

On each side of the seat, the ends of the U-shaped ribs 122 may bepivotably joined together with a pin 130 to from a hinge such that thewell portion 128 of the ribs 122 may be fanned out apart from each other(FIG. 9A). The pin 130 is also used to pivotally attach the ribs 120 toeach side of the seat frame 12. A cover 110 is attached to the exteriorof, and is supported by, the ribs 122 to form a roughly hemispheric(semi-cylindrical) enclosure.

The ribs 122 are pivotally attached to the main frame 16 of the seatframe 12 at each side of the main frame 16 using a pin 130 on each side.Preferably, the pin 130 is disposed at a lower end of each leg portion5. This pivoting or swing arrangement allows for the entire coverstructure to be selectively fanned apart to provide a concealingenclosure (FIG. 8), or collapsed together to permit ease of transport(FIG. 10). Having the cover 100 in a collapsed, or stowed positionallows for easier mobility of the user during transport because itreduces the height and volume of the apparatus and thereby reduces theopportunity for entanglement in low hanging branches.

For a more rigid enclosure, a locking clamp 140 can be fixedly attachedbetween the main frame 16 and the cover frame 120 a. The locking clamp140 selectively engages the ribs 120 with the main frame 16 so as tomaintain each rib 120 at a specific angle. When deployed, each rib 120is positioned at a unique angle, and when stowed, all ribs 120 arepositioned at substantially the same angle. During operation of thecover 100 a, the user fans out the ribs 120 such that the well portions128 are spaced apart, and such that the outermost rib 120 and the innermost rib 120 lie on the ground with their respective well portions 128opposed. Once engaged with the locking clamp 140, the now fanned outribs 120 provide a rigid frame creating an enclosure. In addition, whenthe ribs 122 are collapsed, the locking clamp 140 rigidly fixes thecover frame 120 a to the main frame 16 for ease of transport.

A further embodiment of the cover 100 b is similar to the firstembodiment described above. In this embodiment, the cover 110 isprovided with a plurality of narrow, elongate pockets 115 extending inthe width-direction of the apparatus 10. A rib 120 is disposed withineach pocket 115 to form the cover frame 120 b (FIG. 9B). The pockets 115can extend continuously across the width of the cover 110, or can beformed in discrete sections which are strategically positioned along aline extending in the width direction. The plural pockets 115 are formedsuch that on each side of the main frame 16, the ends 124, 126 of therespective ribs 120 are gathered so as to be disposed side by side alongan arc surrounding the lower end of the leg portion 5. The well portions128 of the ribs 120 extend radially outwardly from the lower ends of theleg portion 5 in a fan-like manner. The ribs 120 are disposed within thepockets 115 such that the ribs 120 and the cover 110 are mutuallysupporting. That is, the pockets 115 maintain each rib 120 in a desiredconfiguration and at a desired location on the cover 110, and the ribssupport the cover 110 in space.

A further embodiment of the cover 100 c is similar to the firstembodiment described above. In this embodiment, the ends 124, 126 of theribs 120 are received within a hub 150 formed on the lower end of eachleg portion 5 to form the cover frame 100 c (FIG. 9C). The hub 150 maybe removably attached to the leg portion 5, or may be formed integrallytherewith. Each hub 150 includes a housing 156 provided with a pluralityof sockets 152 formed along its periphery 154. The sockets 152 are sizedand shaped to receive the ends 124, 126 of the ribs 120 therein. If thehub 150 is removably attached to the leg portion 5, then each hub 150comprises an additional socket 152′ sized and shaped to receive thelower end of the leg portion 5 therein. The sockets 152 are oriented onthe housing 156 so as to maintain the ribs 120 in a configuration whichsubstantively surrounds the seat 30 and an occupant of the seat 30. Forexample, the sockets 152 are arranged to receive the ends 124, 126 ofthe respective ribs 120 such that the ends 124, 126 of the respectiveribs 120 are disposed side by side along an arc surrounding the lowerend of the leg portion 5, and the well portions 128 of the ribs 120extend radially outwardly from the lower ends of the leg portion 5 in afan-like manner. The hub 150 may be a single rigid body as shown in FIG.9C, or alternatively may comprise a plurality of housing portions 156′which are selectively adjustable relative to each other, and whichinclude one or more socket 152. The lower peripheral edge 158 of thehousing 156 is of sufficient length to provide a support foot for themain frame 16, permitting an alternative means by which main frame 16can be free standing.

A still further embodiment of the cover 100 d employs a spring steeltwist-fold cover frame 120 d (FIG. 11). Spring steel is advantageousbecause it is lightweight and can be folded down compactly for stowing.Additionally, this configuration provides for the most simplistic andrapid deployment of the cover 100 d. The cover 100 d, comprising pluralspring steel loops 160 and a cover 110, is stowed with the loops ofspring steel 160 twisted and folded against themselves. Placement of thecompacted cover 100 d in a tight-fitting pouch 162 maintains the cover100 d in a folded configuration against the tension of the spring steelcover frame 120 d (FIG. 12). Once the cover 100 d is removed from thepouch 162, the tension in the spring steel is released, and the cover100 d expands to form an enclosure over the occupant. A rear edge of thecover 110 d is attached to the main frame 16 by conventional means. Forexample, attachment may be accomplished by stitching the cover 100around the main frame 16, or alternatively by hingedly attaching one ofthe loops 160 of spring steel to the main frame 16. Ideally a pluralityof loops 160 of spring steel would be employed to achieve a hemisphericshape.

In all embodiments the cover 100 includes a cover 110 formed of a fabricmaterial, and ideally is formed of camouflage fabric (FIG. 13). Althoughother types of camouflage may be employed as a material for the cover,three-dimensional (3-D) camouflage is commonly used in hunting andoutdoors applications and provides excellent results in the inventiveapparatus 10. 3-D camouflage provides for ideal concealment because itnot only visually breaks up the silhouette of the cover structure, butit also provides a high degree of visibility out of the cover 100. While3-D camouflage is available in numerous varieties, commonly it is madeof a camouflage fabric stitched to a mesh layer. The camouflage layer isgenerally perforated by cutting the fabric with a pattern of incisions.As a result, shaped flaps or 3-D cut-outs, integral with the fabricalong at least a portion of an edge of the flap, are free to moverelative to the remainder of the fabric. Ideally, the 3-D cutouts willtake the form of leaves or other naturally shaped elements.

The cover 100 covers the cover frame 120, 160 so as to substantiallycompletely surround the user seated within the apparatus on all sidesand from above. While 3-D camouflage provides a high degree ofvisibility out of the enclosure, it is preferable to form the cover 100to include at least one opening 118 for unobstructed viewing andshooting therethrough. The opening 118 is illustrated in the figures aspositioned in the line of sight of the seated user. Although not shown,additional openings may be provided at each lateral side of theapparatus.

Alternatively, camouflage material incorporating activated charcoal forscent dampening may be used.

Although the present invention has been described herein with respect toa specific illustrative embodiment, the foregoing description isintended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Those skilled in theart will realize that many modifications of the preferred embodimentcould be made which would be operable. For example, a number ofvariations of pockets and straps can be added or subtracted from thepresent invention to hold various types of gear. Also, many types ofmaterial can be used for the cover or for the backpack, such aswaterproof or scent suppressing materials. All such modifications, whichare within the scope of the claims, are intended to be within the scopeand spirit of the present invention.

1. A combined backpack and concealable chair apparatus, comprising aframe comprising a main frame section and a support brace pivotallyattached to the main frame section, said main frame section comprisingan upper frame component and a reinforcement member affixed to andinterconnecting two medial portions of said upper frame component; acover comprising a plurality of support ribs and a cover supported bythe ribs, said ribs each having a first end, a second end, and a wellportion between the first and second ends, said ribs attached to saidmain frame section at each of the respective first and second ends, saidcover having a deployed position and stowed position; a frame coveroperatively surrounding a portion of said main frame section, said framecover having a top edge and a bottom edge; a seat operatively connectedto the bottom edge of said frame cover; a set of straps connected tosaid frame cover near the top edge thereof, wherein said set of strapsare configured to receive arms of a user therethrough to permit carryingof the apparatus on a user's back; and a backpack receptacle formed froma flexible fabric material and operatively connected to said frame coveron a side thereof opposite said straps.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein said cover is formed of three-dimensional camouflage.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, where in said cover is formed of scent dampeningcamouflage.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support ribs aresubstantially U-shaped, and wherein the first end of each rib isdisposed on a first side of the seat and a second end of each rib isdisposed on a side of the seat opposed to the first side.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 4 wherein the first end of each rib is pivotallysecured to a lower portion of the main frame section on the first sideof the seat, and wherein the second end of each rib is pivotally securedto a lower portion of the main frame section on the side of the seatopposed to the first side.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the covercomprises a plurality of elongate pockets extending in a width directionof the apparatus, and wherein a support rib is disposed in each of saidplurality of pockets such that the pockets maintain each support rib ina desired configuration and at a desired location on the cover, and thesupport ribs support the cover in space.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6wherein the plurality of pockets are formed such that on each side ofthe main frame section, the first and second ends of the respectivesupport ribs are gathered so as to be disposed substantially side byside adjacent to a lower end of the main frame section, and such thatthe well portions of the support ribs extend radially outwardly from thelower ends of the main frame section so as to be spaced apart.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 4 wherein a hub is provided at a lower end of themain frame section on each side of the seat, and wherein the hubreceives the ends of the support ribs and maintains the ribs in adesired configuration.
 9. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein a lock memberselectively locks the support ribs in a desired configuration withrespect to the main frame section.
 10. A combined backpack andconcealable chair apparatus, comprising: a frame, said frame comprisesan U-shaped member pivotally attached to a main frame, wherein said mainframe comprises an upper frame component, and a lower frame componentattached to said upper frame component; a cover, said cover comprising aplurality of support members and a cover supported the support members,said cover attached to said main frame, said cover having a deployedposition which surrounds a user on all sides and from above, and astowed position in which the support members and cover are collapsedtogether; a frame cover surrounding a portion of said frame; a backpackreceptacle operatively attached to said frame cover; a seat memberoperatively attached to said frame cover; and a set of straps attachedto said frame cover.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said coveris formed of three-dimensional camouflage.
 12. The apparatus of claim10, where in said cover is formed of scent dampening camouflage.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of support ribs aresubstantially U-shaped, said ribs each having a first end, a second end,and a well portion between the first and second ends, wherein saidsupport ribs are attached to said main frame at each of the respectivefirst and second ends, and wherein the first end of each rib is disposedon a first side of the seat member and a second end of each rib isdisposed on a side of the seat member opposed to the first side.
 14. Theapparatus of claim 13 wherein the first end of each support rib ispivotally secured to a lower portion of the main frame on the first sideof the seat member, and wherein the second end of each support rib ispivotally secured to a lower portion of the main frame on the side ofthe seat member opposed to the first side.
 15. The apparatus of claim 13wherein the cover comprises a plurality of elongate pockets extending ina width direction of the apparatus, and wherein a support rib isdisposed in each of said plurality of pockets such that the pocketsmaintain each support rib in a desired configuration and at a desiredlocation on the cover, and the support ribs support the cover in space.16. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the plurality of pockets areformed such that on each side of the main frame, the first and secondends of the respective support ribs are gathered so as to be disposedsubstantially side by side adjacent to a lower end of the main frame,and such that the well portions of the support ribs extend radiallyoutwardly from the lower ends of the main frame so as to be spacedapart.
 17. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein a hub is provided at alower end of the main frame on each side of the seat member, and whereinthe hub receives the ends of the support ribs and maintains the ribs ina desired configuration.
 18. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein a lockmember selectively locks the support ribs in a desired configurationwith respect to the main frame section.
 19. The apparatus of claim 10,wherein said support members comprise a plurality of continuousresilient loops fastened to said cover, the loops acting as springs andsized to stretch the cover into a semi-rigid hemispheric shape, whereinat least one of said loops is hingedly attached to said main frame, andwherein when stowed, the loops are collapsed by twisting and folding theloops on themselves.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein saidresilient loops are made of spring steel.